Let's talk about: 1-2 year old speech and language development

Oh the adorable 1-2 year old little ones.  They are in between the baby and older toddler phrase.  At times, their snuggles remind you of those precious newborn snuggles.  In the next breath, they are showing you all the lovely independence and spunk of a true toddler.

As rapidly as moods and interest change, so does their speech and language development.  But what does that mean?
I am a SLP and I am also a mama to two little ones.  Being a mother to two littles means that I, too, get those emails titled "Is your child talking?", "How to promote language development", and I click...a little personal and professional curiosity.  I appreciate the information shared about speech/language development, but often it is not shared that typical speech/language development may not happen the same for all children.  There are general guidelines for expected mastery of speech/language milestones and typical speech/language development, but there is also a range that is considered average and appropriate for developing these milestones.
The information I'm sharing below is from reputable sites all listed at the bottom of this post.   What I want to emphasize is that this information shared and most information you read regarding speech and language development shares expectations; however, it is important to note that there is a range of development that is considered to be within the average range.  Your child may not do all the milestones listed for a 1 year old on the day of their first birthday, but continue with your support and creating a language rich environment, and a child with typically developing speech/language will develop these skills in the coming months.  Ok to the good stuff...

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Around the age of 1 a child should:

• Respond to a sound by looking and/or turning in the direction of the sound
• Respond to his/her name by turning body or looking
• Understand familiar words (mama, daddy, food, milk)
• Play reciprocal games (peek-a-boo, drumming games)
• Listen to story and songs (maybe not in their entirety, but in part)
• Look at something when a communication partner points
• Point to items to show a communication partner
• Use long babbles
• Use vocalizations and gestures to get and keep attention
• Use gestures to communication such as waving hi
• Imitate speech sounds
• Say 1 word phrases

The year between turning 1 and turning 2 is a fascinating year for language development.  Typically, speech and language skills are rapidly developing with bursts of development all throughout.  If your child has not spoken his/her first word by 16 months, you may want to talk with your pediatrician or consult with a Speech Language Pathologist.

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 1-2 year old speech and language development. During this year a child should:

• Start to identify body parts by pointing when asked and can name them (even if the sounds are not clear)
• Answer simple questions with gestures or simple responses
• Ask questions like "What's that?" "Who?" "Where?"
• Follow 1-part directions ("Give it to mommy")
• Point to pictures in books when the reader names them
• Name pictures in books
• Use pronounsI, it
• Use the -ing form of verbs (running, drinking, sleeping)
• Understanding and use of concepts: in, on, up, down, under
• Use a lot of new words
• Starts to put two words together in phrases
• Clearly articulate (say) the sounds p, b, m, h, and w in words
• Be able to be understood approximately 25%-50% of the time by his/her communication partner

1-2 year old child social language development.  A child should:

• Gesture for greetings (waving hi and bye)
• Enjoy making someone laugh and repeat the actions that made the person laugh
• Participate in parallel play
• • When children play next to each other
• Verbal-turn taking (the beginning of conversation)
• Participate in simple pretend play (making food in a kitchen, talking on a phone, feeding a baby)
• Imitate adult intonation with words, phrases, and babbling

1-2 year old literacy development.  A child should:

• Attend to a book for approximately 2 minutes
• • At this age, their attention is equal to about 1 minute for each year.  So a 2 year old could be expected to have a 2 minute attention to a task.
• Recognize familiar books by their covers
• Listen to simple songs, rhymes, and stories
• Participates in the reading action by turning pages, pointing to pictures, and labeling pictures.
• Pretends to read

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I cannot emphasize enough that there is a range of time in which it is considered average for a child to develop these speech/language skills.  The important thing is that you are observing your child's skills grow and continue to grow each month.  If you have a concern, talk to your pediatrician, a Speech Language Pathologist, or please reach out to me.
Be sure to check back soon for a post on ways to FUNctionally support developing speech and language skills.
XOXO,
Julianne

Resources:
https://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/Speech-and-Language/
https://speechhearing.columbian.gwu.edu/sites/g/files/zaxdzs1996/f/downloads/Milestonesguide.pdf
https://www.asha.org/public/early-identification-of-speech-language-and-hearing-disorders/

Learn the signs...(FREEBIE)

With April being Autism Awareness Month and May being Better Speech and Hearing Month, it seems fitting to share resources that help professionals and parents understand early (0-5 years old) milestones and expectations.
Ok great...but how you ask?  Did you know the Center for Disease Control runs a program/website called "Learn the Signs. Act Early" loaded with free information and resources (AND A FREE APP)?
If you have questions about milestones for little ones, if you have developmental concerns, if you are just interested, GO VISIT the website!  There are checklist, videos, and FREE books.
Website for "Learn the Signs.  Act Early":
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/index.html

Let's talk about these FREE books!  What an amazing resource.  I thought it might be too good to be true, but I will attest...the books are free and they are great!  There are books geared toward 2 year olds and 3 year olds available in English and Spanish.  Not only are the stories engaging and the illustrations interesting for littles, they are written to highlight milestones and skills expected for 2 year olds and 3 year olds.  You are limited to a max of 10 of each book per order...just a FYI :)
Website for free materials/books:
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/freematerials.html

Has anyone visited this website or used this program before?

SLP2Be Must Haves

Entering into the world of graduate school for Speech Language Pathology was an adventure.  Just a couple years prior to starting grad school, I had never heard of Speech Language Pathology.  Now, on the other side of graduate school and fully immersed in the world of Speech Language Pathology, I (along with some of my favorite SLPs) have some recommendations for resources and materials to support the SLPs2Be.

**I will continue to update this post with new recommendations as they come in**

• An Advanced Review of Speech Language Pathology (amazon)

This is a SLP fan favorite!  I used this book to study for the Praxis exam and thought it was fantastic.  My recommendation to SLP grad student currently in the grind, buy this book now and use it as a supplement with your courses.  Another avenue for learning the information and you will be familiarizing yourself with the book so when it comes to studying for the Praxis it will all be smooth reviewing (and not learning a new book/format, etc.)

• Assessment in Speech-Language Pathology: A Resource Manual-5th Edition (amazon)

A fellow SLP refers to this as her speech therapy bible...it is that good!  A manual covering a wide range of disorders and materials/procedures for diagnosing, evaluating, and treating.  This information is for pediatric and adult populations.

• Eliciting Sounds: Techniques and Strategies (amazon)

Yes!  Evidence based descriptions for eliciting sounds.  Great ideas and techniques.

• A Good Planner

Seriously...use your phone, computer, or paper planner.  Find whatever works for you and use it!  A fellow SLP mama (and one of the most organized people I know) created her own planner called the Focused Life Design.  I have my 2019 planner and I LOVE it!  Check it out.

Do you have recommendations to share that I haven't listed?  Leave a comment or email me at hobinslp@gmail.com and I'll add it :)

-Julianne

Speech, Language, Audiology...huh?!

Speech Language Pathology...Audiology...SAY WHAT?!
When I started this blog and information sharing, I was mostly sharing with other professionals sharing tips, tricks, ideas, research, etc.  Over time, this community has shifted to include parents and caregivers and I am sooooo excited and thankful for that.  With the growth in the community, I figure it is a good time to explain some of the background behind the information sharing.  Here it goes...

What is a Speech Language Pathologist?
Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) are professionals trained to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.
https://www.asha.org/students/speech-language-pathology/
What is an Audiologist?
Audiologists are professionals trained to provide care in the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment of hearing, balance, and other auditory (hearing related) disorders in children and adults.
https://www.asha.org/students/audiology/
The American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA)is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association.  
  
What is language?
Language is the comprehension and/or use of spoken, written, or symbol system in which there are socially shared rules that include the following:

• Word meaning
  • (e.g., "star" can refer to a bright object in the night sky or a celebrity)
• Word structure
  • (e.g., friend, friendly, unfriendly)
• Putting words together
  • (e.g., "Peg walked to the new store" rather than "Peg walk store new")
• Deciding words/phrases to go together best given a specific situation
  • ("Would you mind moving your foot?" could quickly change to "Get off my foot, please!" if the first request did not produce results)

What is speech?
Speech is how sounds are made.

• Articulation: How speech sounds are made using the mouth, lips, teeth, and tongue
• Phonology:Patterns of use of speech sounds.
• Voice: The production of sound using the vocal folds and breath
• Fluency: The rate and rhythm of speech (more commonly referred to as stuttering)

What are speech and language disorders?
There is extensive literature and research available to students and professionals in the field offering insight into “norms” and expectations.  While there are many factors to consider when discussing a speech/language disorder, in general, a disorder is considered when an individual has difficulty using or understanding language or speech in a way that is not consistent with developmental expectations or is the result of other factors.  It is best to contact a professional with questions/concerns.
This link offers more information and if you scroll to the bottom, a professional search for SLPs in your area https://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/Speech-and-Language/
What about hearingand balance?
An audiologist can assess, treat, and rehabilitate hearing and balance related disorders including cochlear implants, hearing assistive technology, and hearing aids.
https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Treatment/
As a SLP and now a mother, I find I am now asked much more personal questions regarding a variety of topics.  In my upcoming posts, I’m going to share information on my most asked questions….SO now you have the background knowledge for that information J
Be sure to leave a comment, question, or input!
XOXO,
Julianne

New Year...Same Routines

Happy New Year!  I seriously love a New Year.  There is so much excitement and a fresh outlook.  It also helps that New Year's Eve is all about things that sparkle! :)
In this house, we are back from all our amazing holiday adventures which included my sister's amazing wedding!  Now that we are back, we are getting back to (or at least trying) our routines...FOR EVERYONE! :)  Oh man it is hard to get a 3 1/2 year old, 18 month, and the parents back in the swing of things.
Calendars and schedules have always helped me.  Before the Christmas break, a preschool teacher shared that it might be helpful for the kids to do a countdown for going back to school toward the end of break.  Lightbulb!  We do countdowns for holidays, but I have never done a countdown for going back to school.
We did ours this morning and my little guy was so excited!  He was excited to complete the project, but also seemed really excited to understand when he would be going back to school and started talking about what he would be doing at school.  It honestly appeared organizing for him as he counted the days.  He asked that we make one for his little sister as she will be going back to music class...of course...sister needs a countdown, too!
You could make your countdown anyway that works best for you.  We chose to make a paper chain.  I let the kids pick their colors.  After we assembled the chain, we hung them on the door in our kitchen/play room so it is an easy visual reminder.  Nothing fancy (obviously), but hoping it helps for a smooth transition back to school (and music class) :).
What are you all doing to help your family get back into your groove?


XOXO,
Julianne

My life as a SLP...8 years later

December 17th is a big day for me!  It is a Speechie anniversary for me!
I graduated with my Master of Science in Communication Disorders on December 17, 2010.  Basically, I graduated into the world of Speech Language Pathology.  Now, this California girl did so in Nebraska...December in Nebraska...think cold, snow, ice.  And YES, I walked across that stage in gold sparkly high heels!  (In all seriousness, I LOVED my time in Nebraska and if you are looking to go to graduate school for Communication Disorders, I urge you to look into the University of Nebraska at Omaha.)

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On my graduation day, I remember sitting in my seat during the ceremony and being overcome with emotions.  I was proud and also nervously excited for the future...where would I work, what population would I work with, what was next...
8 years later and the world of Speech Language Pathology has brought me so much professionally and personally.  I have worked with preschoolers through high schoolers, I have worked in a specialized center, traditional public school setting, and a homeschool/clinic setting.  I have learned from some of the most impressive and compassionate educators.  I have experienced so many emotions individually and with my students and their families.  I have attended countless (I seriously should have kept a tally starting out) meetings of varying intensities.  I have to admit that some of the situations I have found myself in have broken me down and made me question my calling, but then a preschooler used her words to communicate with a peer, an elementary school student using an AAC device communicated "I want hug" to his mother, a 5th grader ran up to me proudly (and correctly) articulating /r/ for the first time, a high school student reported more confidence engaging in social interactions with peers, colleagues express that an idea they took away from an inservice I gave helped them to better support a student, a parent who thought their child might never have a meaningful conversation participates in services and watches their child's language grow...these moments remind me of my professional WHY.
During these past 8 years, I have welcomed two beautiful children into the world.  Without realizing my professional calling mixed with my personal calling and I am so grateful.
It is an honor to serve those who need support with speech and language skills.  Thank you to all those who are with me on this journey...I am a better SLP because of you...I mean it!

Now on to year 9!

XOXO,
Julianne

P.S. YES, this is a revamp of my original blog name...Something To Talk About SLP.  I have explored with different names throughout my 5ish years of blogging, but this one just really resonates with me.  So, I am happily back to Something To Talk About SLP

Me-In-A-Bag

At the beginning of the school year, I take the first week to focus on building relationships.  The students need to get to know me and the other students, and I need to get to know them.  Even if I have worked with a student before, I take the time to rebuild the relationship.  I strongly believe this is key to a successful year!
I wanted a way for my students to shared items of interest, but I needed to make it visual.  So I came up with the idea of "Me-In-A-Bag".  Come to find out many others have also had this idea (hey...great minds think alike).  I found a sweet little poem from HomeSpeechHome to attach to baggies that I sent home with each student that explained the activity.  I gave verbal instructions that they could put real items in the bag, take pictures of items, or write the words of the items.  I also assured the students that they would get these items back...I wasn't going to keep their special items (this was a common question!)
The students all arrived with their items and shared with their groups.  It was such a great opportunity to get to know each other, but also a wonderful time for me to get to observe their speech and language skills in more of a conversational manner.
Let me know if you try this with your students or your children!

Want to know what I put in my bag?  Check out below...

A picture of my family: Pretty self explanatory.  I think they are everything!
A K-Cup of Peet's Coffee: I love coffee...oh yes I do!
A school bus picture:  This is one of the first items I helped to make when I started working as a SLP.  The bus goes with a book that I used daily when I started working with the preschool population.  It represents my love for being a SLP.
Goldfish crackers:  I love to snack, and Goldfish crackers are the ultimate snack item.
A picture of a jumprope:  I was on a jumprope team!  Turns out, jumping rope is similar to riding a bike.  I might not be as fast or able to do all the tricks, BUT I can still jump!
What would you put in your bag?

Preschool Firefighter Theme

This post will be updated periodically as I explore new activities, books, toys, etc. 
Blame it all on my roots...personal roots, being the child of my mother and professionally roots, starting as a preschool SLP... I sure do love a good theme!  When we were invited to visit a local fire station, I knew I needed to put my theme-loving self to work.  With my own children and with work, when I consider putting a theme together, I want what we are working on to be functional and meaningful...not just doing it because it is cute and themey :).  I consider: books, "work"/craft activities, toys, and snack.
I just had a few days to work on this theme prior to our fun fire station visit AND my favorite firetruck/firefighter books are happily spending the summer at my work office, so I improvised a bit.  I did a little online browsing and found some new favorites to add to the party.

Books

This is one of my favorites!  I love it for sequencing and story retelling. https://www.amazon.com/Five-Little-Firefighters-Tom-Graham/dp/0805086978

This is a very simple board book, but it is a favorite in my house.  Again, great for story retelling.  It is also great for starting the conversation about emergencies and what might happen in emergencies.https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Vehicles-Felix-Fire-Engine/dp/1742489435/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1532471783&sr=1-1&keywords=felix+the+fire+engine

Not completely firefighter-themed, but I also like to take the opportunity to discuss occupations...what people do all day.  Some of the material is a little outdated, in my opinion, BUT it is still great for introducing the topic and there are a lot of occupations covered in this book. https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Scarrys-What-People-World/dp/0553520598/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1532472826&sr=1-1&keywords=what+do+people+do+all+day+by+richard+scarry

"Work"/Craft Activities

I did this craft at my very first SLP job, and I have had it with me ever since.  When I made it, I am sure I didn't think I'd still have it 7 (almost 8) years later and I know I wasn't thinking my future children would be playing with it.  Also, speaking of future children, my oldest constantly says, "Mommy, this is just too funny.  It is hilarious!"  I'll take that as a compliment.  Here is a link to the clipart I used http://gclipart.com/fireman-clipart_22668/

Print it out, print out a picture of your child/client's head and paste it on.  Color.  Then, cut out and laminate (if you can)...for, apparently, years of entertainment!
Tara at Homeschool Preschool has amazing resources.  This website has great information, book lists, and some free printables. https://homeschoolpreschool.net

I'm starting to work on some alphabet art with my little guy as he is interested in his letters.  I looked around on pinterest and got the idea for this alphabet art, but there was no one linked to give credit to.  Soooo if this is your idea, let me know so I can share!  Great idea :)

We also happen to have a park nearby that we call the Firetruck park.  We made a stop there before our fire station visit.  We played and pretended to be firefighters driving to a call.

Toys

Firetrucks!  That's enough...especially for the preschool age.  Their brains and imaginations are so active.  Give them the opportunity to explore without any direction.  A great observation for me has been to watch my older one enter his imagination and play out scenarios with firetrucks and ambulances, and then watch my little one try to understand and join in.  Fascinating!
Put on a firefighter helmet and pretend to be a firefighter.  You could simply pretend or you could actually go outside and water some plants.  We "put out a fire" in our trashcans...they really needed a wash :)
Since visiting the fire station, my oldest's most priced possession from the visit...not the cool plastic helmet...NOPE.  Any guesses?  The blue/purple, surgical gloves that they carry in the fire truck.  He has carries the gloves with him everywhere and has pretended to be a firefighter, doctor, veterinarian, and dentist.  So, in the future, I will bring out the gloves as part of our firefighter theme :)  (All about following their lead)

Snack

Now, I did not incorporate any fire-themed snacks this time around, BUT I will be doing this (just ran out of time :) ).  I saw some great ideas on pinterest that I'll share here.  With all snack crafts, use it as an opportunity to help your little one follow step by step directions.  Yes, it may take longer and not look as pretty, BUT there will be so much more meaningful learning!

How awesome are these?!?  Here is a link to the directions for these yummy and adorable snacks. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/fire-truck-cookies/

Letter Smash

It is another warm summer day in California.
First, thoughts and prayers go out to the those affected by the many fires out there.  We are far from the fires.  Despite our distance, the thick smoke in the area is intense.  It is hard to imagine what it must be like close to the site of the fires.  So definitely thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved.
This Ice Smashing fun is brought to you by a mama who wants a fun activity, wants to get the kiddos outside for a little bit, and wants to help them get some energy out :)

What You'll Need:
An ice cube tray
Letters or numbers (I used the small magnetic letters)
Tools to break or melt the ice
A cookie or pizza sheet (if your letters/numbers are magnetic)
And if you want to add in a book, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is a good one!
(Also, looking back, you may want your little ones to wear sunglasses or something to protect their eyes when they crush the ice!)

Start by putting the letters/numbers in the ice cube tray, add water, and put in your freezer.  You may want to put random letters in the ice cube tray or favorite letters or, and this is what I did, letters that spell their name.  Plan to do this the night before you plan to have your little ones get their ice smashing on.
Talk to your little ones about the activity.  You could say, "The ice cubes have letters in them.  The letters will spell our special words.  It is your job to figure out how to get the letters out in our to spell the special words!".  Oh boy, that got the excitement going in my preschooler!  I then said, "Let's collect tools that might help us get the letter out".  We gathered (toy) hammers, screwdrivers, and other tools!  Once we had all our items, we went outside to get to work.  As the preschooler was hard at work with his hammer and chiseling with his screwdriver, he looked over at his baby sister and saw her licking the ice with great melting success.  He then joined in the licking and looked to me to check if that was OK.  Hey...I just said we needed to get the letters out! :)

Once we got the letters out (and our letters spelled my preschooler's name), I started by putting the first letter of his name on the left side of the pizza sheet.  He recognized that the remaining letters belong in his name and went to work spelling his name with assistance, as needed.

How to address speechdevelopment:
-As you uncover each letter, say the name AND sound of each letter
-When you say the sound of each letter, talk about items that start with that same sound. For example, R makes a rrrr sound.  Racecar starts with a rrrr sound.

How to address languagedevelopment:
-Concepts, concepts, concepts!  Talk about: hot/cold, wet/dry, whole/part, before/after, first/then
-When spelling the words, work on sequencing.  First is the letter J, then the letter U.....last is the letter E
-Asking and answering questions.  "What happens when you lick the ice cube?" "The ice melts a little when you lick it."
-Vocabulary!  Label all the items and actions

Happy ice smashing (or licking)
XOXO,
Julianne

Potty Training Tips from an amateur

I take a break from my regularly scheduled SLP Mama posts to share a very real Mama post...potty training!

If you are researching potty training...congratulations, this is so exciting...AND...I am here for you because this is no easy task (at least it wasn't for me).
When I started out I had been hearing a lot about 3-day plans, child led potty training, timed bathroom trips, pull-ups, no undies, big potties, little potties... The information is endless and that's good and bad.
I took to the internet to not only research, but to also reach out to my tribe for personal experiences.  I was curious to hear thoughts on the process, what worked, what did not work, etc.  Let me pay it forward and share the 10 tips that were shared with me and/or that I experienced that have been most helpful when potty training my almost 2 1/2 year old boy.

1. Prepare!
   • This is a common recommendation for all potty training parents!  PREPARE! Talk about potty training before you start.  I talked about it with my little one for about a week before.  Set out a flexible plan, talk about it, and keep talking about it.  Your little one is so capable and understands so much.  When you talk about it, you are familiarizing them with this new experience.  I said say, "On Friday we are going to start potty training and going pee pee and poo poo in the toilet...not in a diaper.  You will have no more diapers".  In addition to verbally (and mentally) preparing yourself and your child, prepare yourself with the essentials:
     • Potty training seat of choice (small toilet, little seat, etc....just determine what works best for your family and go with it)
       • We tried both.  I have a little potty and an Elmo seat for the regular toilet.  My little guy initially STRONGLY preferred the little potty.  He now can go back and forth.  You know your kiddo...do what you think if best for your little one.
     • Undies (and pull ups for night...that was my choice)
     • Lots of cleaning solution!  Period! I'm talking bleach, floor cleaner, stain remover, laundry detergent
     • Movies and activities
     • Treats (for your little one and for yourself)
     • Drinks (for your little one and for yourself...coffee and wine sure helped!)
     • A friend you can text/call
     • 
2. Schedule time
   • Set your little one up for success and truly dedicate a solid 3 days (or more, if possible).  I dedicated a solid 4 days at the house.  We took a trip to the store in the evening on the 4th day and the same on the 5th day.
   • I know!  It is sooooo hard to give up 4 or 5 days to staying at home to potty train.  I literally had one stretch of 5 days in the next few months so I made that our potty training weekend and just went for it.
3. Make a plan, but be flexible
   • I started out with the 3-day plan of following my child's lead and not asking or scheduling potty trips.  After a messy first day with lots of tears, I changed my approach.  I then took to setting a timer for potty trips.  However, whenever the timer went off, my little guy broke down in tears.  His fun and easy going personality turned to one that was extremely fearful and emotional.  Then I switch to a bit of a mix.  When he showed signs of needing to go to the bathroom, I said, "When you do that it shows me that you need to go to the bathroom".  Then, I would take him.  Or I would mentally clock the time and when it was time to use the bathroom, I would just say "Oh!  It is time to go potty.  We are going to go real quick and then we can come right back to play!".
   • Jump in and try out what you think will work best and then trust your gut to make the appropriate adjustments.
   • Also...mamas with multiple kiddos shared that potty training techniques that worked for one kid did not necessarily work for the other kids.  You may need to get creative all over again...
4. "Throw out" your diapers
   • On the morning of our first day potty training we had a little "throwing out" ceremony!  I gave my little guy diapers and had him throw them in the "trash".  What's with all the " "??  Well, while I was totally committed to potty training, I was not sure my little guy was developmentally ready.  I wanted to commit, but I'm no fool...I did not want to waste good diapers (good $).  So we threw them in a clean trash bag and I placed them in the garage.  My little guy thought they were gone, but I did not feel like they were a huge waste.  Now that my guy is potty trained, I'll give them to a friend. :)
5. Pull-ups at night!
   • This is a huge preference thing.
   • Look...I had an almost 2 month old when we started potty training.  I was not about to mess with sleep by trying to potty train at night.  That being said, I put the pull-ups on over undies so that he would still feel wet underwear, but I would not have to wash sheets every morning.  No one has time for that!
6. Be kind
   • This is a transition...a BIG transition!  Your little one is dealing with so much change and all sorts of feelings.  It is a physical, mental, and emotional transition.  Be extra kind and extra patient with your little one, but do not forget to be extra kind and extra patient with yourself.  Tag out with your significant other or another caregiver and go for a walk, grab a coffee...just do something for you!  In my case, I helped myself to the M&M potty rewards :)
7. Praise!
   • Praise!!  Give lots of praise to your little one.  Praise every step along the way that is even a littlest associated with potty training!  Use a lot of positive talk.  I would talk to my little one and say, "You went pee pee in the potty!  So exciting!  You can say, 'I did it!'".  I then found he eventually said the same praise phrases to himself that I said to him!
8. Strategic Activities
   • The first 3-4 days of potty training, when that was all we did, I decided to be very strategic with the activities we did in the house to try to reduce clean up of accidents.  Again, you do what works best for you, but that about your strategy for activities.  I made a "nest" (aka, piles of comfy blankets on the ground).  My little one sat in the nest to watch movies, we then played toys in his nest or on hard floors.  I figured if he had an accident in the "nest", I can easily wash the blankets (and protect the carpets).  If he had an accident on the hard floors, I could easily clean up!
   • That being said, practice an outing.  We made a plan to take my little one to ice cream to celebrate his hard work with potty training.  I made a plan...take him to the bathroom before we left, show him the bathroom when we got to the ice cream place, and have him use it when we left.
9. Call on your tribe!
   • I'm sooo serious about this.  My thumbs were on fire with how much I was texting my friends.  I needed their advice, experience, suggestions...I also just needed to vent!  These mamas were life savers!!!  If you do not feel you have that support, I will be here for you!  I'm serious...I think all potty training parents need a parent sounding board!
   • One of my mama friends who had just been-there-done-that with potty training her little boy encouraged me to stick with potty training through the end of the third day as I was about to give up during the afternoon of the third day.  She said to stick with it through the end of the third day and re-evaluate in the morning.  That was such wonderful advice for me and my little guy.  By the third night, potty training seemed to click.
10. Trust your gut
    • One of the most common suggestions for success with potty training was to trust your gut with determining if your child is ready.  You may start potty training and dedicate a couple of days and find that you fully feel potty training is not working for you and your kid.  It may be that your child is not ready.  Stop.  Talk about it with your child..."I'm so proud of your hard work.  You have really worked hard on potty training.  We are going to take a break from potty training and we will do it again in a few weeks!"  Start again in a few weeks or a few months.

Good luck to you!  Know that I am here for you and you got this!

-Julianne

Love for all moms

While my little man took a nap last week, I was browsing through Facebook...taking a break from unpacking boxes from our recent move.  One of my amazing, strong mom friends posted this article from madison.citymomsblog.com.  The title of the article read "Can I Be Honest? Sometimes, I Get Jealous"and it started off with "Dear Stay-At-Home Mom".  I was curious so I started reading...
Now, I'm a Mom who works part timeand a Mom who stay at home part time.  I put the Mompart first because during these short 15 months of actually having "Mom" as my title, I have realized that I am MOMat all times!  Not only am I Mom when I am home and we are reading books or playing at the park, but I am Mom during my therapy sessions, most involved assessments and reports, and during my toughest meetings.  I am also Mom anyway of the week, anytime of the day.
I went back to work, to a career I love, when my little man was 4 months old.  I was so blessed to have the 4 months I had with him, but longed for more time at home with him.  On the flip side, when I was on maternity leave, there was a little part of me that was concerned that I was letting my career I had worked so hard for slip.  While I was going through this internal struggle (and it is ongoing...I hear it just keeps going on and on and on :) ), I was also receiving tons of "advice" from randompeople about how to parent my child!
It is one thing to get advice from family and friends...people who love you and love your child and want the best for you both.  It is completely another thing to get "advice" from a random lady in Target when you are on a rare outing with your colicky 3 month old who is having a meltdown and you are trying all your techniques to soothe your baby and her advice is "have you tried feeding him...maybe you aren't holding him right...try this" hmmmm hands off the baby.  Or a lady at the mall who sees your little man sleeping soundly in his baby carrier and proceeds to come up and tell you how he needs to be home and sleeping.  It goes on and on and thankfully I have honestly forgotten most of the "advice" because at the time it was just too overwhelming and had me second guessing everything.  I kept thinking that these people must have good intentions, but this isn't advice at all...this is judgment!
I am being judged for my baby crying too much, crying too loud, being too skinny, being too chunky, sleeping too much, not sleeping enough, and it goes on and on.  Then when I went back to work, that opened up a new flood gate, "How could you ever leave your adorable baby?"  "Aren't you sad you are going to miss milestones?"...
So when I read this article, I thought it was going to be an empowering article for Moms who stay at home, which I was eager to read because Moms who stay at home deserve tons of praise and support....but ALL moms need praise and support!  Then I got to the second part of the article, where the author addressed Moms who work.  The article is written as a letter to Stay a home moms from Working moms and then to Working moms from Stay at home moms.
Both "moms" say...
I guess I just wanted to let you know that I see you, and I recognize the sacrifices you’re making for your family.
I see you, and I support you. Keep it up, girl!
YES!!!!!  Let's SUPPORT each other!  Let's EMPOWER each other!  Let's help each other along in this crazy and wonderful world of motherhood!
Thank you, Kim from madison.citymomsblog.com for posting this article.
All MAMAS OUT THERE....I SEE YOU!  YOU ARE AMAZING!  I SUPPORT YOU!  GO YOU!
Do yourself a favor and read the whole article:
http://madison.citymomsblog.com/can-honest-sometimes-get-jealous/#lightbox/0/

Tell me about your day...

Have you ever had a hard time getting your school-age child to talk to you about their day?  This is a really common issue parents share with me.  I have the opportunity to work with wonderful, involved, and creative parents who share the different ways they try to ask their child about their day, but their attempts are usually met with one word responses...PARENTS WANT MORE! :)


At the beginning of most of my speech/language sessions, I pull out my WH questions cards.  These cards are made on cardstock or flash cards and I wrote "What", "Where", "Who", "When", and "Why" on the cards.  I start with all the cards facing up with the question word showing.  I ask the students to tell me one thing they did over the weekend/last night/today in school...but just one thing.  The student might say, "I went out to dinner".  I then tell the other students in the group that it is our job to be detectives and use our questions to find out more information.  Each student takes a turn picking a "WH" question, asking the question, listening to the response, and turning the card over after the question is answered.  We continue until all the cards are flipped over.  If we have more questions, we can go for another round of asking questions or we can move onto the next student.
The students love this because it feels like a game.  Parents/teachers find value in it because not only are you getting great information about your child's day, but your child is working on asking/answering questions, developing listening skills, social skills, and more.
Try it at home and make it part of your routine...before homework, at dinner, before bed...
Let me know how it is working for you! :)

Leaving on a jet plane...with a baby

Me: "I'm taking my 6 month old baby on a flight to Nebraska, with one stop in Denver, by myself"
Everyone I talked to: WHAT?!  You are nuts!
My brother was planning to propose to his fabulous girlfriend in Nebraska.  Both families were invited to join in the celebration and surprise my brother's girlfriend at an engagement dinner after the proposal (good thing she said "yes" or that could have been awkward).  When I found out my husband was not going to be able to go to Nebraska for the weekend (darn school and work), I decided that I was going to take on traveling with a baby on my own...I NEEDED to be at this engagement celebration and my little T man needed to be there, too!

I scoured the internet for tips for flying with a baby.  There are some great tips out there. I used some of the tips, but came up with some suggestions of my own:

1.  Give yourself plenty of time to pack!

I used to be a last minute packer.  I would think about what I wanted to pack for weeks, but would wait until the final hours to get everything together and in my suitcase so packing a week ahead of time was incredibly foreign, but so necessary!  Not only are you packing for you, you are packing for the baby, you are packing your diaper bag...and not your everyday diaper bag...a diaper bag to help you and baby happily travel through the friendly skies!
2.  Plan out outfits, activities, and food
Baby clothes, while so cute, have so many little pieces.  I have found that packing outfits in zip-loc bags helps to keep all the little pieces together.  It also makes it really easy to get my little T dressed....pull out a zip-loc bag and the outfit is complete!  In my "Super flying through the friendly skies" diaper bag, I packed go-to toys, books, even my iPad with downloaded episodes of Sesame Street.  A fun tip from my mom was to have a few new items...so I bought a couple small new toys and new books!  T loved the new items and they really worked to keep his attention when we were delayed on the runway.  I would also suggest packing a blanket you don't mind putting on the floor so your little one can stretch out during layovers.  Food was the hard part to plan.  T was still nursing so I packed one refrigerated bag of pumped milk (in case I couldn't easily nurse) and two frozen bags.  When going through security, they needed to inspect the thawed bag, but the frozen bags didn't require any additional inspection!
*Don't forget to pack a snack for yourself...granola bars, crackers, and water!
3.  Practice collapsing everything
One thing I did not think through was collapsing everything with baby in tow to get through security.  Make a plan for getting the stroller, carseat, diaper bag, etc. through the security belt.
4.  Check in at the gate!
I did not know about this step!  Once you get through security, go to your gate and check in there.  Let the airline employee at the gate know that you have items to gate check.  They will tag your items and then you are ready!
5.  Pick you seat wisely
For a baby who isn't walking, sitting next to the window is the way to go.  You can rest on the side of the plane and you can have some privacy if you are nursing.  If you have a walker, pick the aisle...easy access to walk the plane.
6.  Be prepared for take off and landing
Baby ear's aren't the best for handling air pressure changes.  If you are nursing your baby, be prepared to nurse during take off and landing.  Bring your cover and get as comfortable as you can get snuggling up to the side of the plane.  If you are lucky, you will nurse at take off and your little one will fall asleep!  If your baby isn't nursing, be prepared with a bottle, pacifier...anything that will let the baby chew or suck.
I'd love to hear other tips/tricks of traveling with a little one.  What are some of your go-to travel tips?
-Julianne

UPDATE: Suggestions and Questions

 1.  What strollers do you recommend for airport travel?
-If you child is still in the infant car seats, check out the snap and go options:**
[caption id="attachment_85" align="aligncenter" width="300"]Click for website to stroller[/caption]
     We have the Graco version

Click for website to Graco stroller

     If your child is no longer in an infant car seat, a great umbrella stroller will do.  We like the Upton Stroller from Babies R Us.  It folds up easily and has great functionality for traveling:Click for website to Upton Stroller

**I am in no way affiliated with the products I'm recommending.  I am simply sharing my recommendations from personal experience.

What other suggestions or questions do you have?

Cheese and pepperoni....hold the anchovies

My first two years working as a SLP, I had the privilege of working at an early intervention program with children ages 3-5  years old.  During my time at the early intervention program, I was blessed to be supported by intelligent and caring coworkers.  I didn't realize just how crucial their support would be in helping to shape me as a SLP.  My time with the amazing professionals at the early intervention program shaped me and my philosophy for serving our speech and language students:

“Play is the work of the child.” – Maria Montessori

To this day, even when working with my older students, I make our therapy sessions together the equivalent of their "play".  Meaning, our time together and what we work on needs to be intentional, functional, and meaningful to my students.  I thank my coworkers and friends at the early intervention program (you all know who you are) for helping to solidify that theory!
With that, I am pleased to share with you a post by Jennifer LeGardeur.  Jennifer works at the early intervention program where I started my SLP career.  Jennifer started out as my CFY supervisor and mentor, but quickly became a dear friend.  When I was at the early intervention program, Jennifer and I saw our preschool groups at the same time in neighboring rooms.  We spent a lot of time collaborating, and I was nervous that when I left the early intervention program, I would not have that same collaborative experience, but Jennifer has kept it going.  I get emails from her with ideas, new books, new apps, etc. to share with me.  I asked her if she would want to write a post for my blog, and I'm so excited she agreed!  Enjoy...

I have been trying to come up with some fun ideas to get my kids with social language goals interacting in new ways.  Last week, I decided to do a pizza theme.  First, we read the book "Hi, Pizza Man!" by Virginia Walter.  The kids identified the person/animal that came to the door, stated where the pizza was (e.g. "It's on the dog's head!"), and said the animals sound and 'hi' to it (e.g. "Woof Woof, pizza dog").  Next, we sang "I am a Pizza," which they loved and continue to request.  After the song, I pulled out two phones, a wooden pizza and wooden toppings, and a pizza box that Round Table kindly donated.  One student would volunteer to order the pizza and another would volunteer to be the Pizza Man.  The child ordering would call and ask if they could order a pizza and said which topping(s) they wanted (choices were mushrooms, peppers, and pepperoni).  They would ask how long it would take and then say 'good-bye' or 'see you soon' before hanging up.  The Pizza Man would have to remember what was ordered and put the pizza together.  They would then go and knock on the classroom door to deliver it. We practiced appropriate greetings and we ended up inviting the Pizza Man in to eat with us.  The child who ordered the pizza was given the wooden pizza cutter and had to ask each student if they wanted a slice.   On our last day of the pizza theme, we sequenced making pizzas with mini pita bread, tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and mini pepperoni.  Each student was responsible for one item and other students had to request the items that they needed.  They had so much fun!

Thanks, Jennifer!!!

10 tips for reading books with your baby

Reading books to babies?!  YES!  You can and should read books with your babies.  Here are 10 tips for reading books with babies.

1.  Choose picture books with bright, colorful pictures
Babies' eyes are still developing.  They are not able to see pictures, objects, or people the way we see them.  However, they are so interested in bright, colorful designs and pictures.  Reading books with colorful illustrations will capture your baby's interest and support cognitive development.
2.  Take a picture walk
Take your baby on a picture walk through the book.  Don't read the story.  Look at the pictures.  Point to the pictures.  Label what you and your baby are looking at.  You can label the actual objects, colors, size, etc.
3.  Let your child explore
If you child is old enough to grab at the pages or even grab at the pictures on a page, follow his/her lead.  If they grab to turn the page, help them turn it.  If they grab at a picture on the page, start talking about it.  If your child grabs the whole book, help him/her look through it...
4.  "Read" the book
You can always read word for word the written story in a book.  I recommend doing that as those authors are talented and creative people.  However, I often make my own story when reading through the book with little kiddos.
5.  Make sounds
How many little babies love to make sounds with their mouths?!  I mean our little ones are classic noise makers and I LOVE it!  Use their strength to include them in the "reading".  For example, when reading a book that has a car or truck, make a rumble sound with you mouth.  Get your baby's attention and make the sound again pausing after to encourage your little one to copy and make the sound back.
6. Get moving
Children learn so much when movements are associated with new skills.  It is never too early to start moving...you just modify based on your baby's ability.  Referring back to the car or truck I mentioned in #5...think of a simple movement that can go along with it that you can do with you baby.  Maybe it is a horn honking move or a whole body wiggle for a rumbling sound.
7.  Look for books with texture
Around 3 months (some before and some after), babies start to take interest in different textures.  There are great books out there with different textures throughout the story.  This adds a whole new level of conversation to the book.
8.  Books with repetition
Babies love repetition.  Reading a book that has a repeated phrase throughout the story allows your baby to hear those words multiple times.  You might find that you baby starts to make sounds during the repeated phrase.
9.  Have books easily available
A fabulous SLP shared with me that when her children were little, she had a basket in the living room filled with children's books.  Such a great idea.  The books are easily accessible for adults to grab to share with the baby, and once the baby gets more mobile, he/she can grab the books independently!

10.  Repeat a favorite book
Do you notice your baby having a favorite book or even a favorite page in a book?  My little guy loves the last page of The Very Hungry Caterpillar (the page with the brightly colored butterfly).  We spend so much time on that page talking about all the different colors and shapes.  If you notice the same in your little one, great...repeat that book over and over.  This engages your little one as he/she is naturally interested in the book, allows for repetition, and gives the opportunity to expand on new ideas each time you read together.
It is never too soon to introduce books to your little love.  It might feel foreign to read to a 2 month old, but it is a wonderful gift you are giving your baby.  Soon it will not feel foreign, and storytime will be a highlight of the day!

UPDATE: Suggestions and Questions

Some of you have shared some really wonderful reading tips and have asked questions that I'm sure many are also wondering.  I thought it would be helpful to share the tips and questions below:

 1.  One mama shared that she used to record her voice when reading stories to her children.  She would play the recording for her children when they were going to sleep.  She said they loved them and would request the "mommy tape".
-Very creative!  I bet this could be very soothing for little ones, too!
2.  One mama shared that her 9 month old just wants to eat the books and he will grab at the book until it is in his mouth!
-My little guy is also at the stage where EVERYTHING ends up in his mouth.  Sometimes I let him "eat" the book as a way of exploring.  Other times, when I'm reading the book or talking about the book, I give him something to hold that he can put in his mouth, in place of putting the book in his mouth.  That way his hands are occupied, he can chew on something if he needs that input, and I am able to read and talk about the book.

Have a questions or suggestion....please share!!

Conversation Jenga

If you have played Jenga, chances are, YOU LOVE JENGA!  Everyone loves Jenga!  Especially children...they love anything you can build and then knock over, right?!

With my elementary school students, we play Jenga, but of course with a speechie twist.  :)

How to make and play: On a regular Jenga set, I wrote conversation starters on each of the blocks.  As a student picks a block, he/she reads the conversation starter out loud, and then speaks on the topic.  The other students in the group listen to their peer and then ask one related question.  Another way to play is to have the student who picks the block present the conversation starter to a peer.  This is a great game to practice conversing socially, listening, asking questions, and turn-taking.

Amazon: Jenga Classic Refresh Game

Amazon: Bugged Out (Good for those smaller hands)

Stumped with conversation starters?!  Let me give you a little jumpstart:
1.  Tell me about your favorite animal.
2.  Tell me about your favorite meal.
3.  Tell me about something that makes you happy.
4.  Tell me about your family.
5.  Tell me about your last birthday.
6.  Tell me about your day at school.
7.  Tell me about your favorite sport.

The key with the conversation starts is to make sure the questions/statements are open-ended.

What do you do to help facilitate conversation in a fun and functional way?

Reading Passages Resource: FREE

Quick post to share an excellent resource I used almost daily this last year.  Read Works (http://www.readworks.org).  Have you heard of it?  If not and you work with elementary, middle school, and high school students, you are in for a treat.

Let me start by saying that I am in no way affiliated with Read Works and I have not been asked to review the website nor am I receiving any reimbursement for my review.  This is simply a genuine and excited share of a fabulous resource.  

Read Works is a non-profit organization aimed to support reading comprehension.  By signing up for FREE you have access to research-based units/lessons and reading passages sorted by genre, grade level, and reading level.  I have been working to make my speech and language sessions align with common core standards and work addressed in the classroom while keeping the students' attention and motivation.  Knowing the topics covered in class or even in current new events, I go onto Read Works at the beginning of the week and find articles that aligned with those topics.  I print out a choice of articles...usually two.  During the speech and language sessions, I give a quick intro for each article and let the students decide which article we should work through.

We use the article to address all the speech and language goals.  For example, with articulation, I give each student a copy of the article and have them highlight their speech sounds.  Then we popcorn read through the article while practicing our sounds.  For example, with language, we stop at the end of each paragraph to summarize or discuss literary concepts in correct and complete sentences.  Clearly, the options are endless...those are just two examples of way I have used the articles to target speech and language goals. 

What are your favorite resources?

10 tips for reading books with babies

Reading books to babies?!  YES!  You can and should read books with your babies.  Here are 10 tips for reading books with babies.

1.  Choose picture books with bright, colorful pictures
Babies' eyes are still developing.  They are not able to see pictures, objects, or people the way we see them.  However, they are so interested in bright, colorful designs and pictures.  Reading books with colorful illustrations will capture your baby's interest and support cognitive development.

2.  Take a picture walk
Take your baby on a picture walk through the book.  Don't read the story.  Look at the pictures.  Point to the pictures.  Label what you and your baby are looking at.  You can label the actual objects, colors, size, etc.

3.  Let your child explore
If you child is old enough to grab at the pages or even grab at the pictures on a page, follow his/her lead.  If they grab to turn the page, help them turn it.  If they grab at a picture on the page, start talking about it.  If your child grabs the whole book, help him/her look through it...

4.  "Read" the book
You can always read word for word the written story in a book.  I recommend doing that as those authors are talented and creative people.  However, I often make my own story when reading through the book with little kiddos.

5.  Make sounds
How many little babies love to make sounds with their mouths?!  I mean our little ones are classic noise makers and I LOVE it!  Use their strength to include them in the "reading".  For example, when reading a book that has a car or truck, make a rumble sound with you mouth.  Get your baby's attention and make the sound again pausing after to encourage your little one to copy and make the sound back.

6. Get moving
 Children learn so much when movements are associated with new skills.  It is never too early to start moving...you just modify based on your baby's ability.  Referring back to the car or truck I mentioned in #5...think of a simple movement that can go along with it that you can do with you baby.  Maybe it is a horn honking move or a whole body wiggle for a rumbling sound.

7.  Look for books with texture
Around 3 months (some before and some after), babies start to take interest in different textures.  There are great books out there with different textures throughout the story.  This adds a whole new level of conversation to the book.

8.  Books with repetition
Babies love repetition.  Reading a book that has a repeated phrase throughout the story allows your baby to hear those words multiple times.  You might find that you baby starts to make sounds during the repeated phrase.

9.  Have books easily available
A fabulous SLP shared with me that when her children were little, she had a basket in the living room filled with children's books.  Such a great idea.  The books are easily accessible for adults to grab to share with the baby, and once the baby gets more mobile, he/she can grab the books independently!

10.  Repeat a favorite book
Do you notice your baby having a favorite book or even a favorite page in a book?  My little guy loves the last page of The Very Hungry Caterpillar (the page with the brightly colored butterfly).  We spend so much time on that page talking about all the different colors and shapes.  If you notice the same in your little one, great...repeat that book over and over.  This engages your little one as he/she is naturally interested in the book, allows for repetition, and gives the opportunity to expand on new ideas each time you read together.

It is never too soon to introduce books to your little love.  It might feel foreign to read to a 2 month old, but it is a wonderful gift you are giving your baby.  Soon it will not feel foreign, and storytime will be a highlight of the day!

New mama...new speech therapy outlook

Hello there!  Wow it has been a long time since I have posted. 

Thank you, Katie Niemann Photography http://www.katieniemann.com/main.php

My baby boy, TJ, was born in March...on my first day of maternity leave.  Instead of waking up and getting ready for work, I woke up and went straight to the hospital.  No hospital bag packed, no car seat installed, NOTHING.  I felt completely unprepared, but I have found that TJ and the big GOD were teaching this planner a little lesson.  Trust in yourself and in God's plan, be flexible, and know that it will all be ok.  And it has been more than ok.  Being a mommy has been the hardest thing I have ever done, but the most unbelievably rewarding.  Days when TJ cries and fusses are all forgotten with just one of his charming smiles...he melts my whole being!

In graduate school, I learned that babies start making connections and learning language from day 1, but it is a completely different experience watching it first hand in your own child.  At two months, TJ makes eye contact, smiles, vocalizes, localizes sounds and follows sounds, and is beginning to understand turn taking with vocalizations...makes the SLP mommy giddy.  I have always had a loving spot in my heart for early intervention and loved working with the preschool population; however, I have never experienced working with individuals this young.  As I gawk at my TJ, I am constantly thinking through how I can modify some of my books, songs, and toys to be appropriate for him because the truth is he can learn SO much right now...he is a sponge!

For other fellow mommies and fellow SLPs, I'm going to be posting about my journey.

Articulation Test Center App Review

 

Discovering new, effective, and efficient ways to administer articulation assessments and screeners is something I'm always interested in.  So I was excited when given the opportunity to review Little Bee Speech: Articulation Test Center.

Little Bee Speech provided me with a free copy of the app; however, all opinions expressed in this review are mine. 

Here is the home screen of the app.  On the home screen, you have the option to chose the Screener test or the Full Test.

Let's look at the Screener option first.  When you choose Screener, you next select the age of the student being screened.  When you click on the age, a tab appears that shows the shows tested in this Screener test.

Next, you will put in the information for the student.  When done inputting student information, you student will be listed in Students Being Tested.  Select the student to test and Begin Test.

Bright, realistic pictures present each word being screened.  Tap on the picture for a sentence included a model of the word.  Target sounds are illustrated with a green square.  If the student correct articulates the target sound, swipe right to the next stimulus.  If the student incorrectly articulates the target sound, simply tap on the green square once, and it will turn red.  Tap again and the square will turn yellow indicating a close approximation of the sound.  There is also a drag down box allowing for recording of sound substitutions.  Another great feature is that you can record the student's product of the word in order to review production and allow for more accurate scoring.  My students found the recording option to be distracting, but it is a great idea and definitely worth a try.

The SUCCESS visual will appear when the screener is complete!  My students loved this did a little celebration dance :)

Once finished administering the screener, you have the opportunity to evaluate the student's intelligibility.

Then, click on the student's name to review results.  In the results section, you can review words tested, errors marked and the position in the words, sample report, and recommendations for sounds to target for therapy.

Now let's look at the Full Test!  Once you choose Full Test, you will be given the option to assess initial sounds, medial sounds, final sounds, initial blends, vowels, r sounds, speech sample, and full test.  This is great to give options to more specifically target areas of concerns or to gain more overall information from the full test.

The format and function of the Full Test works the same as the screener (mentioned above).  With the Full Test, you have the option to add a speech sample which is amazing!  I love speech samples!

With the Speech Sample option, the student is given three different picture scenes to engage with.  The picture scene has background sounds that can be turned on or off, interactive pictures with questions.  The best part of this feature is that the speech sample can be recorded right there in the app!   When you review the Speech Sample in the results section, you can play back the recording and adjust intelligibility rating and you can transcribe the speech sample.  ALL within the app!

Overall thoughts with Articulation Test Center

I am really excited to add this app to my assessment repertoire!  One question I had was if this was a standardized assessment?  After reviewing the product information on their Apple App Store Page  , I found my question answered.  This is not a standardized assessment.  It has been designed to be used as a supplemental assessment in conjunction with standardized assessments.  While I would love to have found that the Full Test was standardized, there are many positives to using this app as a supplemental assessment.  From my experience, this will be most beneficial for:

-Completing articulation screenings

-Completing screenings and assessments on students who require instant feedback
-Looking further into articulation errors

-Adding speech and language samples to assessments!!

I most appreciate:
-The realistic pictures
-The speech sample section
-The analysis of sound errors and pattern errors
-Suggestion sounds to focus therapy on
-Sample report to use as a template
-The SUCCESS picture...my students really loved that!

Articulation Test Center currently sells for $49.99 and can be purchased through the App Store https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/articulation-test-center/id700440156?mt=8

Interested in adding Articulation Test Center to your assessment repertoire?  Do you love Articulation State Pro, but have been waiting for a sale??  Wait no longer, Articulation Test Center and Articulation Station Pro are on sale August 12-14.  These two apps will be 30% off as part of Little Bee Speech's back to school sale!!

For more information and helpful hints on the products, check out these tutorials.  I reviewed them and found them very user friendly and informative.

Articulation Test Center Tutorial videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9pVP35u9FQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiezkVEmdak

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOYAJRY7KXU